3-Methylpentane from TCI is a branched saturated hydrocarbon and one of the hexane isomers. It is a simple aliphatic compound with no reactive functional groups. In the chemistry laboratory it is commonly used as a nonpolar solvent, as a reference compound in hydrocarbon analysis, and as a starting material for studies of the physical properties of branched alkanes. TCI lists this product under Non-Heterocyclic Building Blocks. Researchers turn to this group when they need simple organic compounds with a clearly defined structure and consistent quality for routine work and research.
Researchers choose 3-Methylpentane because it is chemically inert and has very low polarity. As a result, it does not react with most solutes, so it works well wherever the solvent must not interfere with the chemistry under study. As a branched hexane isomer, it is also useful in structure–property studies, for example when comparing volatility, chromatographic retention times and combustion behaviour across isomers. A pure compound with a single, defined isomer is far more useful for calibration and peak identification than technical-grade hexane mixtures, whose isomer composition can vary from batch to batch.
In Indonesian laboratories, 3-Methylpentane is used by university chemistry departments, research institutes and industrial quality control laboratories that work with hydrocarbons, fuels and organic solvents. Analysts use it as a defined reference when identifying hexane isomers in petroleum-related samples. Academic groups use it in teaching and research on alkane physical chemistry. Synthetic chemists keep it on hand as an inert nonpolar medium. Its clear structural identity makes results easier to reproduce between laboratories and over time.
- Nonpolar solvent work: 3-Methylpentane is chemically inert and has very low polarity, so it dissolves nonpolar substances without reacting with most solutes or changing the system being studied.
- Gas chromatography calibration and peak identification: as a single, defined hexane isomer, it gives a reliable reference peak, which technical hexane mixtures with variable isomer composition cannot provide.
- Hydrocarbon analysis reference: laboratories analysing fuels and petroleum-related samples can use it as a reference compound to confirm the presence and identity of branched C6 alkanes.
- Structure–property studies of alkane isomers: its branched structure allows direct comparison with other hexane isomers in volatility, chromatographic retention time and physical behaviour.
- Combustion behaviour research: researchers comparing how hydrocarbon isomers burn can use this pure, well-defined branched alkane as a consistent test compound across experiments.
| Brand | TCI (product code M0383) |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 96-14-0 |
| Molecular formula | — |
| Purity | — |
| Category | Chemistry > Building Blocks > Non-Heterocyclic Building Blocks |
| Pack sizes | available in the pack sizes listed in the product options |
| Physical form | liquid hydrocarbon; refer to the TCI label and SDS for details |
| Storage | keep tightly closed in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources |
Store 3-Methylpentane in its original tightly sealed container in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. Keep it away from heat, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources, and away from strong oxidising agents. Volatile hydrocarbon solvents should be kept in a suitable solvent or flammables cabinet. Handle the material in a fume hood and wear safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves and a lab coat. Keep containers closed when not in use to reduce evaporation and vapour build-up. Before use, read the supplier's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full hazard, first aid and disposal information. Dispose of waste according to local regulations for organic solvents.
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